This game changed the definition of "strategy" for me. Never did I think I would enjoy a TBS game, until now.
About a month ago I found some interest in Galactic Civilizations II. The gameplay was neat; every geek likes space... But I was never a TBS fan, I always opted for RTS games. But the run of the mill build and kill RTS games were getting old. And so when they announced the demo two weeks ago, I was there. There was a dilemma though. The next day Rise of Nations; Rise of Legends demo was to be released. I wanted to test both; however in all fairness I was more excited about RoL than GC2.
After a long day of work I turned on my desktop to see two reminders for downloads from GS. Like a rabbit is swift I downloaded both. GS finished first, so I installed it. While waiting I figured I should give GS a shot.
Yippeee! The first 140 turn game had me asking for more. The second 140 turn game still wasn't enough! Rise of Legends could take the back burner, I could care less.
The next day I stopped by my local Gamestop. They only had one left, but that was well enough. Quick, I got home and installed the game. From then on all my fantastical dreams of ruling the galaxy came true.
Then I opened the custom ship creator! As a young kid I would play with my erector set and Legos for hours on end. My basement was overflowing in bright plastic girders and semi-punctured blocks. I used to have friends come over and we would build entire layouts. So, not surprisingly, I enjoy the ship creator as if it were a game in its own right.
Both GC and Civ4 are addicting; however there are some differences. For example, the Civ tech tree is relatively simple, where as the GC is long and complex. This could either good or bad, I like the complexity myself. There are a lot of variables in GC as well. This includes everything from the ships you build to the planets you populate; there is much micromanagement.
However, these characteristics do not negate the enjoyment of this game. Instead, from my own experience, they enhance it.
I suggest downloading the demo, and definitely buying the game. Mind you there is much to learn, but over all it's worth it.
"Live long and prosper"